When Students and Craftsmen with Disabilities Learn Together to Revive the Art of Digital Wood Grafting

Sleman, October 25, 2025 – Laughter and enthusiasm were heard from the creative studio of Avta Mandiri, Prambanan, Sleman Regency. Individuals with disabilities practiced operating a digital engraving machine under the guidance of lecturers and students from ISI Yogyakarta. That day, the Digital Wood Engraving Application training became a significant moment for participants to transform their digital designs into tangible engraved results on wood.

The ISI Yogyakarta team, led by Nandang Septian, along with Silvya Bintang Ayu Candradewi, Amar Leina Chindany, and Amanda Amalia Faustine Gittawati, is present with three accompanying students: Raheesh Hafid Mahardika, Aditya Alwin Alwaysa, and Ayunda Regina A.

“After understanding the design fundamentals last week, we are now entering the technology implementation phase. Participants learn how to transform digital files into engraving patterns with various levels of thickness and detail,” explained Amanda Amalia Faustine Gittawati from the Media Design Study Program.

Sukamto, Chairman of Avta Mandiri, appeared satisfied with the day's training results.

“We can now create our own designs. Previously, if we wanted text or patterns on our products, we had to order them from someone else. Now we can do it ourselves,” she said with a smile.

Student mentor Ayunda Regina A. also shared her experience accompanying the participants.

“It feels great to be able to learn together with Avta Mandiri friends. They diligently understand the engraving application, even more enthusiastic than us. This proves that limitations do not hinder creativity,” he said.

For ISI Yogyakarta, this activity is not just about technology, but also about the exchange of knowledge and empathy. Lecturers and students learn to understand the creative thinking process of the disability community, while Avta Mandiri gains new skills to develop their business more independently and modernly.

This cross-generational collaboration demonstrates that art and technology can bridge differences, build confidence, and create new spaces for social inclusion in the creative industry.